*NOTE*:

Log-in Details: Please refer to email from Pamela.Jao@agrion.org for link to the meeting and instructions for entering the meeting room. If you are registered for the meeting and have not received this email or have questions, please call at 212- 725- 2550 or email at Kimberly.Schoemaker@agrion.org. 

PROGRAM:

The ultimate vision of the smart grid is an end to end network wherein interactive communication exists between the utilities and electricity consumers. Smart grid enabled appliances are integral to achieving this interaction by enabling both parties to manage electricity consumption via real-time data.

The Integration of Smart Appliances: Technology and Standards

• What technical standards need to be in place before wide scale roll-out of appliances? Who sets these standards, and how will they be enforced (industry, government)?
• What challenges block the successful implementation of two-way, end-to-end communications between utilities and end consumers? Are these challenges systemic, technological, economic, etc?
•  What are the most intuitive interfaces, design, and tools existing or under development for smart appliances?
• What decisions can end users make based on the information garnered from smart appliances? 
  
• Considerations of privacy and security. 
  

Introducing Smart Appliances to the Market

• What are the consumer drivers: promise of lower electricity bills, reduced energy footprint, etc. How can these be effectively relayed to the consumer?
• Strategies for achieving cost-competitiveness in the marketplace (smart vs. conventional appliances).
• Who will be the early adopters? Will smart appliances be firstly a luxury product?
• Given the long shelf life of many home appliances, is the payback cycle attractive? In what timeframe will the electricity savings offset the premium cost. 
• What other avenues exist to incentivize consumers?
• How will government subsidies help to promote of the development and adoption of smart appliances?
• When can consumers expect to see fully developed lines of smart appliances? 
  

Speakers: 

GE Appliances & Lighting, John Ouseph, GE Commercial & Industrial Business Programs Manager

Grid2Home, Mike Bourton, VP of Business Development 

Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), Charlotte Skidmore, Director, Energy Analysis 

For questions or information, please contact: